Berlin-based NaturalX Ventures has announced the final close of its €100 million venture capital fund dedicated to supporting early-stage consumer health startups. The fund, which will focus primarily on Series A rounds, aims to address the funding gap in Europe’s consumer health sector while also participating in select late Seed and Series B investments. NaturalX Ventures, the investment arm of German pharmaceutical conglomerate Schwabe Group, plans to deploy capital strategically across Europe, with some investments extending to North America.

Focus on Science-Backed Wellness and Medicine

With an emphasis on the intersection of wellness and medicine, NaturalX is targeting startups that develop science-backed products and services for consumer health. Initial investments will range from €3 million to €5 million, with follow-on funding of up to €10 million per company. The firm will act as either a lead investor or co-investor, ensuring its portfolio companies benefit from its deep industry expertise and extensive network.

A Growing Market Opportunity in Europe

Marvin Amberg, founder of NaturalX Health Ventures, highlighted the shifting dynamics in consumer healthcare, noting that European consumers are becoming more proactive about their health. He pointed to the U.S. market, where consumer-driven healthcare companies have achieved significant success, as a blueprint for Europe's evolving landscape. Notable examples include Oura and Neko Health, which have demonstrated that consumer-centric healthcare startups can scale meaningfully in the region.

Strategic Investments in Promising Startups

NaturalX Ventures has already backed several innovative companies, including mybacs, a direct-to-consumer probiotic subscription service, Flow Neuroscience, a developer of at-home depression treatment technology, Kyan Health, a workplace mental health platform, and Meela, a therapy-focused startup. In addition to direct investments, the firm has allocated approximately 20% of its fund to backing other venture capital firms with at least a partial focus on consumer health. This dual investment approach aims to strengthen the broader ecosystem while ensuring a steady pipeline of promising startups.

Changing Consumer Behavior and Market Potential

The consumer health sector in Europe has historically faced challenges due to the continent’s state-funded healthcare systems, which often limit direct consumer spending on healthcare solutions. However, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated a global shift toward proactive health management, increasing consumer awareness and demand for innovative solutions. Amberg emphasized that rising health literacy, driven in part by influential voices like Andrew Huberman and Bryan Johnson, has further propelled the market forward, with technology and AI playing a crucial role in facilitating access to health data.

A Shift Toward Consumer-Driven Healthcare Solutions

Despite previous investor hesitation, European consumer health startups have begun gaining traction, with recent success stories such as UK-based femtech company Flo and Swedish body scanning startup Neko Health achieving unicorn status. NaturalX Ventures believes this marks a turning point for the industry, as more consumers seek personalized, technology-driven health solutions. By providing capital and strategic guidance, the firm aims to accelerate the growth of startups that empower individuals to take charge of their well-being.

Industry Praise and Long-Term Vision

Carl-Philipp von Polheim, founder of mybacs, praised NaturalX Ventures for its hands-on approach, citing the firm’s deep knowledge of the nutritional supplement and broader consumer health market as a key advantage. He emphasized that their pragmatic and fast decision-making process has allowed his company to focus on scaling its business efficiently. As a result, NaturalX is positioning itself as more than just an investor—it is a long-term partner committed to fostering innovation in the sector.

With the European consumer health market evolving rapidly, NaturalX Ventures is set to play a critical role in shaping the future of the industry. By leveraging Schwabe Group’s resources and decades of expertise, the firm is well-equipped to identify and support high-potential startups that are redefining the way consumers approach healthcare. As more investors recognize the potential of this sector, NaturalX’s latest fund signals a broader shift toward consumer-driven healthcare solutions in Europe and beyond.